An older-adult client who is having difficulty breathing is admitted to the hospital. Which of the following approaches is the best for the nurse to use to obtain a complete health history?
A)Obtain subjective data about the client from family members.
B)Omit subjective data collection and obtain the physical examination.
C)Use the health care provider's medical history to obtain subjective data.
D)Schedule several short sessions with the client to gather subjective data.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the case of an older-adult client with a low energy level, several short sessions may have to be scheduled. Allowing time for the client to volunteer information about particular areas of concern enables the nurse to work with the client to identify existing and potential health problems. In an emergency situation, the nurse may need to ask only the most pertinent questions for a specific problem and obtain more information later. A complete health history will include subjective information that is not available in the health care provider's medical history. Family members may be able to provide some subjective data, but only the client will be able to give subjective information about the shortness of breath. Since the subjective data about the client's respiratory status will be essential, obtaining the physical examination alone will not provide sufficient information.

An Older-Adult Client Who Is Having Difficulty Breathing Is Admitted